Jetsettersblog

A new strategic alliance gives small and medium-sized tourism operators in ASEAN a powerful online presence even if they don’t have a website.

The initiative is the result of strategic collaboration between Creative Advances Technology (CAT) and the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), both based in Kuala Lumpur, and the ASEAN Competitiveness Enhancement Project (ACE), based in Bangkok.

The new platform allows tourism players to go online and get new business for free. The collaboration boosts ASEAN tourism business opportunities by putting operators’ travel packages on multiple travel trade and consumer online sites, including ASEANTA’s new www.southeastasia.org portal. The ASEANTA portal uses Standard Online Tourism Architecture (SOTA). SOTA utilizes networking linkages to connect travel businesses with potential customers, both trade and consumer. SOTA currently connects over 900 travel agents and more than 15,000 travel suppliers worldwide.

Through this electronic tourism platform, tourism players can be linked and networked within the industry more effectively. Hundreds of tourism players in ASEAN are expected to benefit from the collaboration.

PATA is backing the SOTA initiative and is promoting the SOTA platform to its members and through its global PATA Chapter network.

For more information, visit www.visitASEAN.travel

with Leading Hotels of the World

Chinese New Year in 2010 is being celebrated with special weekend and longer stay promotional packages at some of The Leading Hotels of the World’s most luxurious hotels and resorts in the Asia-Pacific.

At the award winning Capella Singapore, The Leading Hotels of the World’s newest member, set in its own private estate on Sentosa Island, a ‘Spring Indulgence’ package is on offer from Jan 15th -Mar 5th ‘10.

Spring Indulgence offers couples two nights in a villa with daily breakfast, a late check out and decadent 1.5 hour spa pampering session per person for a total price of S$2,000.

Throughout the month of February, Capella Singapore will also offer guests a ‘Best Available Rate’ price inclusive of daily breakfast and a buy-one-get-one-free on all spa treatments at its destination Spa, Auriga.

In Myanmar, The Strand has made its legend as “the finest hostelry east of the Suez” since the Victorian era, and continues to maintain its legendary charm and history. It is offering two nights in a deluxe suite to guests over the Chinese New Year period for just US$560.

The package for two includes daily breakfast and dinner at the famous Strand Grill, plus guests’ very own personal butler, airport transfers and welcome drinks and a fruit platter on arrival.

In Kuala Lumpur, a Chinese New Year treat for golfers is on offer in the form of Twenty Ten @ The Club at The Saujana, an exclusive 5-star ‘urban retreat’ neighboring prestigious Saujana Golf & Country Club.

The sumptuous private enclave in a 160-acre tropical estate, named by Conde Nast Traveller’s 2009 “Hot List” as one of the world’s best new hotels and resorts, is offering two nights from February 7th -22nd for couples, priced at MYR 2,010.

The promotion includes automatic upgrade to a Terrace Suite and a ‘Ancient Balinese Massage’ at The Spa, as well as daily buffet breakfast and either lunch or dinner at The Restaurant. Other benefits include complimentary evening cocktails, mini bar and all-day coffee and tea.

In northern Thailand, the elegant The Chedi Chiang Mai retreat on the banks of the Mae Ping River in the heart of Chiang Mai, offers a holiday package from February 13th -15th priced from THB 15,200 for two nights or THB 18,200 for double occupancy, with additional nights from THB 7,200.

The rate includes daily breakfast and a 60-min Thai Massage, plus Chinese New Year dinner on February 14th.

For a more indulgent stay in the Chedi Club Suites at THB 25,350, or THB 28,350 for double occupancy you will also have included airport transfers, evening cocktails with canapés, a welcome bottle of wine and complimentary mini-bar.

Please note that all programmes and packages listed above are subject to availability. Certain restrictions may apply.

About The Leading Hotels of the World
www.lhw.com

For reservations and information, please call within Sydney 02 9377 8444 or toll free Australia wide 1800 222 033 and New Zealand 0800 441 016 or visit www.lhw.com

Families Worldwide has launched its new brochure for 2010 /11 which reveals 14 brand new trips, guaranteed departures (once 4 people have booked) and a guarantee for early bookers that they will receive the lowest possible price for their trip before departure (i.e. late booking is a bad idea – the trip might be full and the price won’t be cheaper).

Also new for 2010; a number of the itineraries contain a serious amount of walking for families who really enjoy being active (marked by a boot print in the brochure).

The popular Post Exam Stress Buster trips feature again, which depart before most schools break up (avoiding peak season prices) and certain other itineraries are exclusively for families with teenagers.

Trips can be enjoyed three different ways (no other operator offers this):

Group departures: The most popular type of adventure holiday with, typically, three or four families travelling together on set dates with set itineraries.

Private departures: Perfect for families who prefer to travel alone or create their own small group with friends; the itineraries are created by Families Worldwide but groups are free to select their own, private, departure dates.

Tailor made: Families Worldwide offers the chance for adventurous families to build their own itineraries and select their own departure dates to Egypt, Morocco, Tanzania, Kenya, Costa Rica, Oman, Ecuador & Galapagos and Nepal.

Here is a brief synopsis of the new trips:

Sinai & Desert (Egypt) – 9 days from £999 pp (minimum age 7 years)

A genuine desert experience; includes the pyramids, camping in the desert Bedouin style and snorkelling in the Red Sea.

Morocco Highlights – 12 or 15 days from £899 pp (min. 7 years)
A thorough introduction to this fascinating country including the cities of Fez, Meknes and Marrakech plus Roman ruins, a camel trek to a Bedouin camp, the High Atlas Mountains and seeing where Gladiator was filmed. Optional three day extension to Essaouira on the coast.

Active Costa Rica – 10 days from £1749 pp (min. 11 years)
Highlights of the trip include flying through the rainforest on a zip wire, riding a horse ranchero style, white-water rafting and a visit to Arenal Volcano at night.

Cuba Libra – 12 days from £1899 pp (min. 5 years)
Discover the west of Cuba on this educational trip which includes learning about the revolution, a city tour of Havana, staying in an eco lodge, a boat trip around the Bay of Pigs, rainforest walks and a visit to a tobacco plantation.

Guatemala & Belize – 14 days from £2799 pp (min. 7 years)
Visit two Central American countries on this trip which includes exploring the jungles of Tikal NP, ancient Maya temples, a boat trip on Lake Atitlan, discovering volcanoes and even snorkelling with sharks!

Footsteps of the Incas (Peru) – 13 days from £2149 pp (min. 12 years)

A chance to hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Also includes a city tour of Cusco, rafting, cycling, horse riding and Santa Catalina Convent.

Paradise Island (Bali) – 15 days from £1599 pp (min. 2 years)
Bali really is an island paradise and the itinerary for the trip includes Hindu temple visits, Tropical Bird Park, guided walks, rafting, tree top adventure park, watching a Barong Dance and an elephant ride.

Chinese Crackers – 14 days from £1999 pp (min. 7 years)
Highlights of this fascinating trip include the famous Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall, a Shaolin Temple and a chance to try Kung Fu and Tai Chi.

Hanoi to Saigon (Vietnam) – 15 days from £1499 pp (min. 5 years)

An exciting trip to south east Asia with highlights including the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, Halong Bay junk cruise, Mekong Delta boat cruise and a train ride from Hanoi to Dong Hoi National Park for guided walks.

The land of Dracula (Romania) – 8 days from £999 pp (min. 5 years)

Get under the skin of the myths and mysteries of Transylvania with a visit to Dracula’s Castle. Also includes a visit to a salt mine and a bear sanctuary.

Slovakia, Finland, Austria & Bulgaria – winter trips from £729 pp (min. 5)

Four brand new winter trips from 6-8 days in duration. Activities include husky sleigh rides, snowmobiling, staying in a snow hotel (Finland), snow-shoeing, cross country skiing and downhill skiing.

Families Worldwide trips include flights, all transportation, accommodation, some meals (depending on itinerary) and the services of a tour leader.

Call 0845 051 4567 or visit www.familiesworldwide.co.uk

The most romantic holiday homes to rent worldwide; from the UK to Bali

For the perfect romantic gift this Valentine’s Day, sweep your loved one off their feet and whisk them away to an idyllic, private holiday home, where you can relax and unwind in total seclusion, far away from the distractions of everyday life. On HomeAway Holiday-Rentals there is plenty of choice, from chic city apartments to beach-side retreats and to provide some inspiration we’ve created a collection of our favourite Top 10, featuring some of the most romantic holiday homes and destinations in the world.

For photos, visit our Flickr album here: www.flickr.com/photos/homeawayuk

On a romantic break the main priorities are privacy and a breathtaking setting, which are not always easy to find. Luxury hotels can be pricey and disappointing, but by booking a private holiday home direct it’s possible to find a unique, perfect love-nest that won’t break the bank. Sun, sea and sand lovers can find their own island paradise; chic city pads are a classic; or for hopeless romantics, perhaps a chateau suite, cosy cottage or chalet would suit.

The Top 10 below provides a great range of destinations and romantic holiday homes that will appeal to every interest and budget.

With over 6,500 romantic 1-bedroom properties available to rent around the world on www.HomeAway.co.uk , you are guaranteed to find the ideal romantic retreat.

Whatever makes you go weak at the knees, there will be a holiday rental that is the perfect match.

Prices quoted below are for February and correct at time of going to press.

The Top 10 Romantic Retreats on the banner ad at the bottom of this posting.

ITALY

1) Gorgeous apartment with original features & large roof terrace, Venice
www.homeaway.co.uk/p63751   £1,532 per week / £225 per night (3-night min stay)

This is a light and airy apartment in a fabulous position, just behind the lovely and central Campo San Barnaba in Dorsoduro, five minutes walk from the Accademia Bridge.

The apartment is on two floors (a duplex) and has been newly and carefully restored. It has original features, such as beamed ceilings and Venetian flooring, and offers romantic views of the Grand Canal from the wonderful, spacious terrace.

2) Stone cottage with open fire at the foot of the Sibillini Mountains, Macerata

www.homeaway.co.uk/p421239 . £838 per week (1 week min stay)

This lovely little cottage is set in a peaceful nook amidst the superb scenery of the Sibilini Mountains and features a spacious living room with fireplace, ideal for romantic evenings.

The property also offers a beautiful fenced garden which frames the wide swimming pool. The foliage of the climbing grape-vine under the bower creates a cool shaded space for outdoor meals.

Relax together by the stream which laps the property, with the gentle sound of trickling water in the background, or take a leisurely stroll along its banks.

In the evenings, you can share the telescope with your loved one to watch the stars.

FRANCE

3) Romantic cottage on Chateau estate in the Dordogne
www.homeaway.co.uk/p16795 . £541 per week / £108 per night (2 night min stay)

La Maison de Marc is the detached farmhouse of an early 18th century Chartreuse manor house.

Located in the centre of the Dordogne region, the estate of Le Maine extends for 67 acres of meadows and woods with many pathways, on the edge of the peaceful village of Cubjac.

The south-facing farmhouse has recently been restored to a high standard, preserving most of the original features. All the ground floor rooms open onto a private flower garden and woods.

Outside, on the terrace, there is outdoor dining furniture and a BBQ for delightful dinners under the old oak tree.

4) Beautifully restored boat moored in historic town on the Canal du Midi

www.homeaway.co.uk/p430621  £360 per week / £59 per night (2 night min stay)

The ‘Da Vinci’ boat, built of mahogany and teak, is permanently moored in the pretty port of Moissac, a small medieval town built along the banks of the river Tarn on the Canal du Midi.

The main bedroom is at the front of the boat and has a full size double bed, en-suite shower and dressing table. Couples can enjoy the view of the port from the bar in the wheelhouse. The boat is a romantic setting for those wishing to explore the medieval town of Moissac with its Romanesque abbey and cloisters.

BALI

5) Lakeside villa on an eco-friendly resort in Begadul
www.homeaway.co.uk/p85226  £200 per week / £35 per night (3 night min stay)

This unique and well-appointed wooden villa is located on a small, eco-friendly resort in the Lake District of central Bali and has a unique position amid volcanoes and temples.

Perfect for couples looking for an exotic and special place surrounded by nature to enjoy a healthy and relaxing break, with trekking, boating, jet-skiing, cycling and golf all available nearby.

The property features lovely wood panelled bedrooms and a large terrace from where guests can enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery.

The beaches of the north coast are also only a 45 minute drive away.

UK

6) Windmill near Alvechurch with stunning panoramic views
www.homeaway.co.uk/p437238  £150 per night (3 night min stay)

Surrounded by the rolling greenery of Worcestershire’s countryside and overlooking the small hamlet of Weatheroak, this former windmill provides unique and quirky accommodation for a romantic break.

With a golf course and traditional country pub within walking distance and Shakespeare’s Stratford and other major attractions within a short drive, you will find plenty to do while you are here.

The windmill itself is a Grade II listed building because of its historic interest and has recently been completely renovated and modernised to offer two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and a magnificent 360 degree viewing gallery on the top floor.

CANARY ISLANDS

7) The Orange Tree House, near Puntagorda village, La Palma
www.homeaway.co.uk/p405847 . £468 per week

If your idea of heaven is peaceful tranquillity in natural surroundings, with comfort, luxury linens and quality fittings you will find it here.

The Orange Tree House is a renovated Canaries house with vaulted wooden ceilings. In this detached two-storey retreat set in a private garden with fruit trees, terraces and sea views, relax, unwind, and enjoy the evening sunset when a million stars come out.

The Orange Tree House can be whatever you want it to be, a relaxing private retreat away from the world or a base for hill walking and exploration.

MOROCCO

Traditional Moroccan apartment with private terrace in central Marrakech
www.homeaway.co.uk/p410603 . £513 per week / £89-£95 per night (4 night min stay)

This large, luxurious apartment decorated in traditional Moroccan style benefits from an exceptional location in a quiet street in the area of Guéliz, making it an ideal starting point to visit the city.

It is situated in a new, upmarket residence with a lift, entry phone and guard. After long days of walking in the markets and Medinas of Marrakech, you can relax in the swimming pool situated only 50 metres from the residence or enjoy lovely cooked meals that can be provided for guests on request.

CYPRUS

9) A romantic top floor apartment with stunning sea views in Tala village, Paphos
www.homeaway.co.uk/p90298

£200 per week (1 week min stay)

This romantic top floor apartment is ideal for couples who want all the luxuries of a 5 star hotel, but total privacy.

The views from the balcony are simply breathtaking and the apartment has access to a communal pool on this small, private complex.

All luxuries have been supplied to enhance your holiday experience, even a picnic basket for days at the beach. The decor of the apartment is modern and stylish but with a feel of home from home.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

10) Cosy studio nestled in the hills overlooking the Caribbean Sea
www.homeaway.co.uk/p404481  £419 per week / £66 per night (3 night min stay)

‘Stoneyhill’ is a self catering getaway with breathtaking views, situated on the West coast of Antigua where you can capture the most amazing sunsets along with the tranquil sounds of nature whispering through the tropical breeze.

The property features a spacious living area leading into the balcony where you can sway in the hammock while enjoying the beautiful views.

As the British winter settles in and the temptation to jet off for some winter sun kicks in, HomeAway Holiday-Rentals provides the perfect solution, listing thousands of holiday homes worldwide available to rent in hotter climes.

The site has a huge variety of sunny destinations to choose from, some just a short hop from the UK, like Morocco or the Canary Islands, others more exotic, like Bali or Jamaica. So whatever your budget, your own private place in the winter sun is not out reach.

To provide some inspiration, on www.HomeAway.co.uk  we have compiled a list of ten of the best winter sun homes, featuring some of the most gorgeous properties available to rent around the world. Take a dip in the cooling waters near your own beachside villa in Phuket, or sway in a hammock by the pool in Brazil.

Sun lovers looking to escape grey skies of home will enjoy browsing through these high-end holiday homes, ranging from a gorgeous open-plan villa among the jungle tree-tops in Bali, to a modern townhouse villa in Marrakech.

HomeAway Holiday-Rentals favourite top 10 spots for winter sun:

Bali

Brazil

Thailand

Jamaica

Dubai

Mauritius

Canary Islands

Egypt

Morocco

Cape Winelands, South Africa

Top 10 winter sun holiday homes:

1. BALI
Beautiful villa for a romantic honeymoon or family getaway in Ubud
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 5. From £1,048 per week
The villa almost seems to hang suspended above a steep jungle filled gorge. In all directions there is nothing but trees, but 100m below there are beautiful rice paddies, and in the distance you can see all the way to the ocean.

Furnished by Christopher Noto, the exclusive Singapore furniture designer, Villa Kalisha offers understated romantic luxury, with a strong taste of Asian flare.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p417517

2. THAILAND

Luxury large beachside villa with private pool, terrace and amazing views, Phuket

4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £3,539 per week

Featuring a state-of-the-art kitchen from Minotti, Italy, and other luxury features such as wine cellar, sauna, massage room and home cinema which add to a chill out area with a 15-meter marble pool, this amazing villa also offers a private stairwell from the cliff-edge pool to a natural, shallow swimming enclave in the sea below.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p433920

3. DUBAI

Luxury 4 bedroom villa, Palm Jumeriah
4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8. From £4,830 per week

This beautiful private villa situated near the end of the M frond with wonderful views of the Dubai skyline, has it own private pool & walk through the lounge down the steps to private beach.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p420340

4. CANARY ISLANDS

Luxury villa with private pool near a golf course, Gran Canaria

3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6. From £189 per night

This exclusive and beautiful villa offers ultimate tranquillity and privacy and has spectacular views of the mountains and the golf course. A wicker ceiling allows through partial light, protecting you from the sun’s rays during the day, making this the perfect place for a relaxing read or chat over a couple of drinks.

A private heated seawater pool is also provided while the nearest beaches are only five minutes away by car.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p413635

5. MOROCCO

A beautiful luxury town villa in Marrakech

5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £1,600 per week

Tastefully furnished and decorated in a modern Moroccan style including paintings and ornaments, the villa has two living rooms with a fully functional fireplace and an office, while also offering in house entertainment facilities (large plasma screen TV, DVD, satellite and hi-fi system with satellite TV in each bedroom).

A large dinning room leads off to the private pool and caters for a party of 10.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p89318

6. BRAZIL

Large beautiful house overlooking Ferradura Beach

5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £2,392 per week

This beautiful villa is situated within walking distance of shops and restaurants and features a private cinema room and a garden with swimming pool, heated Jacuzzi and decked barbeque area.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p423163

7. JAMAICA

Beautiful Private Villa with large pool & Jacuzzi, Ocho Rios

7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 18. From £3,064 per week
Situated on the Mammee Bay Private Estate with private beach and only minutes from the town of Ocho Rios with its many craft markets, boutiques, duty free shops, restaurant, bars and vibrant night live, this amazing villa features a spacious panoramic lounge and a large private pool with Hot Tub Jacuzzi.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p69461

8. MAURITIUS

Luxury villa with private pool in the chic area of Grand Bay

4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8. From £198 per night

The design and modern architecture of the villa contrasts with its local elements such as thatch and typical Mauritian ‘chalis’ floors. Bali furniture, wooden openings and marble in bathrooms also give an elegant touch to the villa.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p420872

9. EGYPT
Luxury Detached Villa on The Red Sea

3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6. £900 per week
Designed by prominent Egyptian Architect Shehab Mazhar, this beachfront White Villa personifies the warm elegance of Mediterranean architecture and features 360 degree panoramic views of the Red Sea, golf course and surrounding mountains.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p81595

10. CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA

Stylish comfortable holiday home
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 4. From £108 per night

The charming, newly built estate is situated in a quiet neighbourhood of villas, only two km away from the world-famous Erinvale golf course. The house boasts a spacious living space with high gables and modern, high-quality leather furniture, open fireplace, Flat screen-TV, DVD and access to the terrace.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p504778

Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection: Australia/ New Zealand
New guidebook hits shelves this Winter RRP £19.95

The latest guidebook in the bestselling series from the world’s boutique travel experts featuring 33 extra-special properties in Australia and New Zealand

We’ve combed white-sand beaches, climbed snow-capped mountains, camped in sun-drenched deserts and scoured cosmopolitan cities in pursuit of the sexiest boutique and luxury hotels down under.

Undercover reporting: each hotel has been visited personally by the Smith team and then reviewed anonymously by a local tastemaker, hand-selected by us.

Our incognito fashion, theatre, design and food and wine style-seekers include actor Sigrid Thornton, chefs Christine Manfield and Andrew McConnell, media luminary Deborah Hutton, and events guru David Grant. Each shared with us an unbridled account of their escape with their own Mr, Mrs or Ms Smith.

Follow in our reviewers’ footsteps and taste pigeon and white chocolate in one mouthful at the Royal Mail’s world-class restaurant in the Grampians; spy dolphins and whales from super-hip Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island or sign up for a ‘happy ending massage’ at Pretty Beach House on New South Wales’ Central Coast. And don’t worry, we’ll give you a heads-up on how to pronounce Wharekauhau Lodge in Wairarapa on New Zealand’s North Island. (Try ‘forry-coe-hoe’).

Specially commissioned photography: this glamour-strewn guidebook also features original images from leading Australian photographer Earl Carter.

Insider secrets: as well as evocative photographs and entertaining reviews, there are destination guides covering every practicality from getting around to sniffing out the finest vineyards, shops and galleries, plus in-the-know details such as the best rooms to book, the top tables in the most special restaurants and the most secluded beaches.

And, there’s even that all-important Smith tidbit, ‘something for nothing’, where we suggest great gratis activities.

Luxe for less: each book comes with an exclusive Smith Card, which entitles holders to a year’s free membership (worth £15), fast-tracking you to upgrades, hotel discounts, exclusive on-arrival gifts and other life-enhancing extras and money-can’t-buy privileges.

Simon Westcott, co-founder of Mr & Mrs Smith Asia Pacific:

‘We had the challenging task of seeking out the most charismatic and stylish boutique hotels in this rich, varied and vast continent, for the many Mr & Mrs Smiths now scattered around the world,’ he explains.

‘We wanted to cater to highly informed locals looking for a different kind of getaway as well as international visitors who’d like to see the very best of Australia and New Zealand.

Our books take the guesswork out of booking somewhere best in class. We think what Mr & Mrs Smith does better than any other travel guide in the world is identify the wow-factor – that boutique-travel something special – a take-your-breath away location, incredible food and wine, unique spa treatments or simply the old-word charm of a remote and beautifully restored homestead.’

Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel Collection: Australia/ New Zealand is the fifth book in the collection of travel guides that has become elemental to savvy hotel lovers around the world. Previous editions of the best-selling guidebooks have signposted us to special stays throughout the UK and Europe

The book will be available in all good bookshops, on www.mrandmrssmith.com

• Mr & Mrs Smith AsiaPac launched in May with a local version of www.mrandmrssmith.com curated by our Melbourne office

• There are close to 60 hotels and self-catering properties in Australia and New Zealand in the full online Smith collection, and 550 around the world

• Book a hotel almost round-the-clock through the Smith Travel Team on 0845 034 0700

• Follow the Smiths at www.Twitter.com/smithhotels

• Read our Blog at www.blog.mrandmrssmith.com

Valid Until 31 March 2010

The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali offers a range of romantic venues crafted in magnificent natural settings that are architecturally designed to complement the indigenous culture of Bali.

The Laguna Gazebo by the beach is a romantic venue overlooking the Bali Sea and is encompassed by lush tropical gardens and crystal clear lagoons. With a contemporary Balinese influence, the Laguna Gazebo is decorated with indigenous elements. A traditional alang- alang thatched roof top, timber and marble floors, earthy accents and exotic greenery add a natural touch to the venue.

Equally stunning is Nusa Bagus Island, an intimate environment located in the middle of our lagoons against an inspiring backdrop. Temple Garden, the resort’s beautifully landscaped garden is another preferred choice for personalized dining occasions.

Rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit with the indigenous spa treatment “Balinese Massage” at the Laguna Spa & Villa after a memorable day exploring the island. Enjoy the luxury facilities of one of the finest resorts in the world and treat your palate to an exquisite romantic dining experience at the Laguna Gazebo by the beach over the moonlight.

The package starts from:

• Accommodation at Deluxe Lagoon View Room starts from USD 284++ per room per night.
• Accommodation at Deluxe Studio Room starts from USD 309++ per room per night.
• Accommodation at Deluxe Lagoon Access Room starts from USD 359++ per room per night.
• Accommodation at Executive Suite starts from USD 469++ per room per night.

Experience paradise and celebrate romance with our Romantic Escapade, including the most luxurious services and amenities Bali has to offer. Package includes:

• Private Airport transfer to and from the resort by Luxury Limousine
• Daily tropical fruit basket delivered to the room
• Daily International Buffet Breakfast at Café Lagoon for two persons
• Experience 1 (one) romantic dinner for couple at the Laguna Gazebo by the beach
• Experience 1 (one) indigenous Balinese massage for couple at the Laguna Spa & Villa
• Complimentary coffee & tea delivered to the room by Butler at 24 hours
• Complimentary afternoon tea at Mayang Sari
• Complimentary access to gymnasium, sauna and jacuzzi
• 24-hour Butler service
• Late check-out (subject to availability)

Terms and conditions:

• Minimum stay of 3 nights required.
• Offer valid from 11 January 2010 until 31 March 2010 with black out dates apply.
• Rate is subject to 21% Government tax and service charge.
• Rate is applicable for single or double occupancy.
• Reservation in advance is required and subject to room availability.
• Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.
• Credit card is required at time of reservation.
• Hotel cancellation policy applies
• Not valid for group bookings.
• Terms & conditions apply.
• Please state rate code APPOFFR1

For enquiries and bookings, please contact Reservations Department: 62 361 771327 or email: thelaguna.nusaduabali@luxurycollection.com

Journeys Within
CONTACT: Andrea Ross
TEL: 877 454 3672
E-MAIL: andrea@journeys-within.com
WEB: www.journeys-within.com

TRUCKEE, Calif.— Journeys Within, a boutique Southeast Asia tour company, recently announced exciting new itineraries for the 2010 season.

Described as “pioneers in philanthropic travel” by Conde Nast, and recognized for their efforts to positively impact local communities in Southeast Asia, Journeys Within is also dedicated to delivering its guests comfortable, memorable, and safe experiences while showing them the “real” Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

The following offers a sneak preview of customizable tours for 2010.

Culinary Immersion

From the spice of Thai food to the exotic textures of Laos cuisine and the sour mixes found in Cambodia, this tour takes travelers through these amazing countries while tantalizing their taste buds along the way. Highlights include cooking classes in each city focused on local cuisine, eating with a local family, visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, riding elephants in Chiang Mai, and much more.

Give As You Go Tour

This tour offers travelers a chance to see the highlights in each country, but also positively impacts the communities they are visiting.

This tour visits important community projects in Cambodia that were developed by Journeys Within. Journeys Within Our Community was developed to give back to these local communities while giving travelers a once in a lifetime opportunity to give back to sustainable and inspiring projects. This is the perfect tour for people that want to have a philanthropic angle to their tour, but don’t have the time to volunteer.

Student Immersion Tour

Ideal for ages 12 and up, this tour offers students a look at Cambodia past and present and gives them an opportunity to interact with Cambodians in a safe and supportive environment.

Students organize fundraisers before arriving in Cambodia so they can see their money being put to use within the Journeys Within Our Community Projects (JWOC) while meeting the people who benefit from their hard work.

Laos for Ladies

The ideal girlfriend getaway, this journey takes travelers to mesmerizing Laos for a healthy dose of cultural immersion and fun. Highlights include delectable Southeast Asian food, visiting cultural and historically significant sights, guided nature hikes, cooking classes, interacting with local communities, participating in JWOC’s community projects, and more.

Adventure Asia

This is a get-out-and-do-it-yourself tour.

Travelers can peddle, paddle, and plod their way through these amazing countries. This is a great tour option for first time visitors to Southeast Asia who want to get out and get active while experiencing the highlights.

Highlights include cooking classes, bike rides, elephant adventures, and kayaking and hiking through Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.

For more information about Journeys Within and to learn about their other exciting tours for 2010, contact Andrea Ross at andrea@journeys-within.com  or visit the website at www.journeys-within.com

Located on the vibrant island of Bali, Banyan Tree Ungasan is scheduled to open on 1 January 2010. Boasting panoramic ocean views, the hotel will offer guests the largest infinity pools in Bali and award-winning spa treatments.

Just a short drive from the thriving beaches of Kuta, Seminyak and Sanur the luxury resort is designed to offer absolute privacy and seclusion.

Perched 70 metres above sea level on the cliff-top of the island’s southernmost peninsula, the five star resort offers stunning vistas of the Indian Ocean.

Each of the 73 pool villas is set in its own landscaped garden with a private infinity pool, marble bathroom with sunken baths, and a Balinese balé (outdoor pavilion).

Ideal for couples, families and friends, each of the 11 Sanctuary Villas and three triple-bedroom Presidential Villas features a 12-metre and 25-metre-long infinity pool respectively.

The landscape gardens are perfect for private celebrations and the Presidential Villa even comes with a dedicated spa treatment room and dedicated fitness area.

Guests will be able to take their pick from three restaurants – Ju-Ma-Na restaurant will offer gourmet seafood menus where guests can watch the chefs at work in the display kitchen, or choose to dine overlooking dramatic cliff-edge scenery.

The adjacent Ju-Ma-Na Bar offers sundowners along with Arabic finger food and Moroccan shishas (water pipes). Tamarind, set in the tranquil surroundings of the Banyan Tree Spa, will serve a variety of organic dishes, alongside a menu of Jamu herbal drinks, and Bambu will present popular international and local specialties.

For the ultimate relaxing getaway guests can treat themselves at the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa offering treatments delivered by professional spa therapists, trained at the exclusive Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand.

Designed to reflect unique Indonesian healing traditions the treatments incorporate natural, indigenous ingredients.

Signature treatments include Ayurvedic treatments and Rainmist therapies such as the 180-minute Javanese Lulur treatment, which includes the Serenity Massage, Lulur Scrub, and Honey Avocado Conditioner.

Tropical Locations (0845 277 3310 / www.tropical-locations.com)  is offering seven nights at Banyan Tree Ungasan from £2,129 per person.

This price includes bed and breakfast accommodation in a garden view villa, return economy class flights from London Heathrow to Denpasar, Bali and private transfers.

Take your choice from

The Prestige Bali Villas Portfolio, Seminyak, Bali

Villa Ramadewa

The most exclusive villas in Bali are now available to rent by the week – shorter or longer – to make your stay on this idyllic island truly memorable.

They are situated close many of Bali’s beautiful hidden places, and to the beaches, restaurants and night life.

Choose from thirty six individually designed sumptuously furnished villas with amazing features. Well trained staff can cater for all requirements so guests don’t have to lift a finger.

Traditional Indonesian or Western cuisine is prepared and served to suit requirements at any time.

For a selected tour of the villas, sample the cuisine or perhaps stay a night in luxury contact Colin Pressdee who will make arrangements for you.

Villa Ramadewa Seminyac Bali

Contact Colin Pressdee on 020 7582 5760 / 07768 948339 or on

Colinpressdee@aol.com